Arctotis

Common name: African Daisy

A daisy-eyed perennial flower that is generally grown as a half-hardy annual in the UK.

If grown in a hot sunny position the silvery-grey plants will be transformed into a vibrant display of 100mm (4") blooms in a mix of colours ranging from white and cream, to bright red, with either gold or dark centres.

In dull weather and late in the day, they will close, but will open again when the sun reappears.

Arctotis flower heads

Hybrids flowers last longer than the species making them the most popular varieties for border and bedding out.

Dependant upon variety they can grow to a height of 300-600mm (12"-24") high and flower from July until first frosts.

acaulis and breviscapa grow to a height of 150-250mm (6”-10”) making them suitable for edging borders and for window-boxes, flowering from July onwards.

Stop young plants when 150mm (6") high by pinching out the growing tips to encourage a bushy habit.